Leather bags..

[LabelKing]

Hello,

I have a Bally messenger bag in pig or boar skin. The item is new, and I am going to use it for the first time since purchasing on a trip to Shanghai tommorow. One thing I've noticed is that the leather seems quite dry even though it's new. Should one apply some natured cream to the leather? Also any other information would be appreciated. Thank you.

 

[AskAndyAboutClothes]

LabelKing:

I may be too late for your trip but generally, leather requires occasional cleaning with saddle soap and polishing with neutral cream polish. Kind of like shoes.

You can use a spray leather protector, effective at protecting the leather from water and stains.

Leather brief cases do not have to be cleaned often, but when it's time, make sure you take it to a drycleaner who specializes in leather.

A conditioner is recommended to keep leather soft and supple, and to moisturize it, which keeps the leather from cracking. There are a lot of good leather conditions on the market, sometimes known as balms. Many conditioners come combined with cleaners.

Don't use any cleaner on leather than contains an acid or a detergent. You can use saddle soap, Murphy's Oil Soap, Ivory soap or a cleaner made for shoe leather. Apply with a damp cloth, wipe off and let dry. Then you can apply conditioner as needed.

The bag should last for years and getting beat up a little just adds to its character.

Andy